Czech Elections Raise Concerns Over EU Stability

The upcoming Czech parliamentary elections on October 3-4, 2025, hold significant implications for the European Union, particularly regarding its stance on populism and immigration. Right-wing billionaire Andrej Babiš, currently leading in polls, represents the populist Action of Dissatisfied Citizens (ANO) party, which he founded and previously led as prime minister from 2017 to 2021. Should he win, analysts suggest that this could bolster the EU’s populist, anti-immigration factions and diminish support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Babiš has embraced a “Trumpist” identity since leaving office and has played a role in forming the Patriots for Europe group in the European Parliament, which aligns him with other far-right parties. His government is expected to challenge Brussels on critical issues like climate change and immigration policies. Moreover, a victory for Babiš could lead to a closer alliance with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a prominent critic of EU sanctions against Russia, further complicating the EU’s collective responses to security threats.

In contrast, the primary opposition to Babiš comes from the SPOLU (Together) coalition, mainly represented by the Civic Democrats (ODS) under current Prime Minister Petr Fiala. This center-right alliance has committed to increasing defense spending to meet NATO obligations and sustaining robust support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. Their policies emphasize a focus on European security and solidarity, critical given the geopolitical climate.

The outcome of these elections is crucial not just for the Czech Republic but for the EU at large. A shift towards a more populist and potentially isolationist governance under Babiš could have a reverberating effect on EU policymaking, especially in areas concerning security and immigration. The electorate’s choice will determine not just local governance but also influence broader European political dynamics during a vulnerable time for the bloc.

In summary, the 2025 Czech parliamentary elections are poised to shape not only the nation’s domestic landscape but also have far-reaching effects on the European Union’s political direction. Voters are at a crossroads, facing options that could either reinforce a populist agenda or maintain a commitment to solidarity and support for Ukraine within the EU framework.